what to do with doubt

Lewis tells us about doubt today in A Year with C.S. Lewis.

He tells us about times when we begin to believe in the miracles that God does, but then we find ourselves "back in the familiar", which makes us feel that the whole thing has been a hoax or, at best, a fairy tale all along.

So what do we do with that? Haven't you felt that? The worry itching in the back of your mind that all of this God stuff is just a bunch of malarkey? That you're being "taken in" by people who are just trying to get your money?

Well, there is an answer to that. In fact, there are several. The first, of course, is to pray. To say with the father who wanted his son healed in the book of Mark "Lord, I do believe. Help my unbelief!" And you'd better believe He'll answer that prayer in the affirmative. (see what I did there?)

Another thing to do is to read. Read stories that grow your faith. Read about the saints. Read about the times that God has answered prayers. Read about the miracles that He has done throughout history. You don't have to rely on the works that God has done only in YOUR life... you have hundreds of volumes of stories of people throughout history who have experienced God. You can experience Him through their stories.

One last thing I'll mention is to remind yourself of all the times that He has taken care of you. Of all the things that you KNOW He has done for you. Think back, look at the patterns, and see how much He cares for you. Don't be afraid to doubt... but don't get stuck at the doubting stage. Let yourself wonder... but then let yourself doubt your doubt. What if God isn't there? But... what if He IS??

God, please grow our faith.